Beauty only one of its virtues

By Lois Barber
Deer resistant hellebores grow in just about any type of light or soil, bloom in shade, are drought tolerant, and perennial. Need I say anything more about hellebores to get you to try to grow this wonderful plant?
Hellebores are a member of the Ranunculus family and are long-lived. They bloom in early spring and sometimes even in mild winters. Their common name is the Lenten Rose, and you might see them in bloom at nurseries and supermarkets during the Easter season, along with houseplants.
Hellebores are available in many different colors, so if you are buying them as a decorative houseplant, think of what color goes well in your garden when purchasing.
There are also many different ways in which to use hellebores outside. Planted in mass, they will establish a ground cover or border, and are suitable for slopes, woodland or cottage gardens.
Judith Knott Tyler, co-owner of Pine Knot Farm, located in Clarksville, Virginia, is an expert on growing hellebores. She suggests any of the Niger hellebores as a good, hardy plant to try. They will bloom at the same time as your crocus.More information available from Pine Knot Farms, 681 Rock Church Road, Clarksville, VA; 434-252-1990; www.pineknotfarms.comLois Barber writes and takes photographs for a weekly gardening column for the Republican-American newspaper in Waterbury, CT.Photo here by Richard E. Tyler